Differences Between a Lunar and Solar Eclipse

Eclipses are among the most common phenomena that occur in space. They are easy to predict, and anyone with access to the internet can have plenty of advance notice if they want to see one. If you are one of those people, you are probably wondering: just what is the difference between a lunar eclipse and a solar eclipse?

The basics

An eclipse occurs when one astronomical object is obscured by another. While they always involve the sun, they can occur between a planet and one of its moons, between two planets or even between two of a planet's moons. In the case of Earth, an eclipse occurs when the sun, the moon, and Earth are in an almost perfect line. A total eclipse occurs when the eclipsed body is completely blocked by the other from the view of Earth. Partial eclipses, where they are not completely obscured, are more common.

How they happen

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun. Total solar eclipses are very brief, and when they happen the moon appears exactly the same size as the sun due to both object's respective distances from Earth. A lunar eclipse happens when the Earth comes between the sun and the moon, causing the moon to pass through Earth's shadow. These types of eclipses generally last longer.

Other differences

Lunar eclipses always occur during a full moon. Solar eclipses occur when there is a new moon. The sun disappears completely during a solar eclipse, but the moon does not during a lunar eclipse.

Throughout recorded history man is often fascinated by eclipses. Now you can join the legions of others who have marveled at these wonders of the universe as a more informed observer.